Is the Pastor my Pastor?

[FundNoMore]

I had this discussion a few years ago with a new pastor of a long established church. Long story short, he felt that I should support him as "my pastor". I tried to explain that while he was the pastor of the church, that did not automatically make him my personal pastor. That would be my decision based on the leading of the Holy Spirit. I did support his church leadership and, as a member, reserved the right to privately ask questions of him for things he might say in the pulpit or directions he was taking the church. He wasn't happy about that. Thoughts?

 

[Ekklesian]

What do you mean by "personal pastor"?

 

[Ransom]

Thoughts?

What does he mean by "support him"? And what do you mean by "my pastor"?

Hebrews says to "remember your leaders, those who spoke to you the word of God. Consider the outcome of their way of life, and imitate their faith"; and "obey your leaders and submit to them, for they are keeping watch over your souls, as those who will have to give an account" (Heb. 13:7, 17). The pastor is a legitimate, God-given authority over the church, meaning he is "your" pastor, in the same sense as it is "your" church, in "your" city.

When you say "I did support his church leadership," it looks like you are saying you recognize his rightful authority. If so, then what makes him not "your pastor"; and, conversely, then who is?

 

[sword]

Seems to me when you are visiting churches you may or may not have a "pastor", but once you join a church by design you are accepting the current pastor as the pastor of the church you are joining. I would think one should not join a church (if you believe in church membership) if you are not willing to accept the current pastor as your pastor.

NoMore, do you not trust this pastor at this point. Why would you not Make him your personal pastor?

This does not mean they will be your exclusive source for spiritusl direction. You may have mentors, friends, family members and even former pastors and ministers that you still seek counsel from. No where do I read that only "your pastor" should be your source of spiritual guidence.

Proverbs 11:14 Where no counsel is, the people fall: but in the multitude of counsellors there is safety.
Proverbs 12:15 - The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.

Proverbs 19:20 Hear counsel, and receive instruction, that thou mayest be wise in thy latter end.